Former Chicago building inspector convicted of accepting bribes

CHICAGO — A federal jury on Friday convicted a former Chicago building inspector of accepting cash bribes in exchange for speeding development plans through the city approval process.

Darryl Williams could receive up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced in May. He was an electrical inspector for the city's Department of Construction and Permits when he was charged last year.

The jury this week heard the testimony of an undercover informant who wore a hidden recorder while he passed cash to Williams. David W. Johnson, a former building inspector, said he passed up to $8,000 at a time to Williams from a crooked contractor who was trying to influence the permit process.